As Oregon’s primary election draws near, those seeking to participate in partisan races must ensure their party affiliation is registered by next Tuesday, April 30th. This requirement stems from Oregon’s closed primary system, which mandates voters to cast ballots within their registered party. Democrats can only select Democratic candidates, and Republicans likewise. Independent, minor party, and non-affiliated voters are limited to nonpartisan races. Oregon is among the 15 states enforcing closed or partially closed primaries, with some states implementing party-specific closures. Despite the option for parties to hold open primaries under Oregon law, none have opted to do so. Arguments for retaining closed primaries revolve around registered party members’ vested interest in their candidates and concerns about non-party members potentially undermining the party by supporting weaker contenders. Opponents advocate for open primaries, promoting accessibility for all in a democratic system, and criticizing the tendency of closed primaries to produce extreme candidates catering solely to their party’s base. Efforts are underway to establish open primaries in Oregon, led by the organization All Oregon Votes. The group has repeatedly attempted to place a measure on the ballot to enact this change, but has faced setbacks. Despite the lack of success, they remain determined to continue their campaign in 2026. Previous attempts to introduce open primary measures via ballot initiatives have failed in 2014 and 2008. A significant factor motivating these efforts is the substantial number of independent and nonaffiliated voters in Oregon, constituting the largest voter group in the state. As of April 2023, registered Democrats comprise 32% of voters, Republicans 24%, non-affiliated voters 43%, and minor party members 8%. Open primaries, according to proponents like Michael Calcagno of All Oregon Votes, would enable voters to scrutinize candidates rather than solely focusing on party affiliation. They contend that independent voters are more discerning and make decisions based on individual candidates rather than party loyalty. Calcagno emphasizes that open primaries would not sway election outcomes significantly, as independent voters generally hold progressive values aligned with the state’s sentiments. Instead, such a system would encourage politicians to broaden their perspectives and collaborate across party lines. For those not registered as Democrats or Republicans, ballots will still be available, albeit excluding partisan races. Those желающие to participate in partisan primaries have until April 30th to register as Democrats or Republicans. Registration updates can be made online at oregonvotes.gov/register or at local elections offices. During the general election in November, all voters can vote for candidates from any party, regardless of their registration status.
Oregon Approaching Primary Election: Reminders for Partisan Race Voting
